Inlays and Onlays in Southwest Houston
When a tooth is too damaged for a filling but doesn’t require a full crown, inlays and onlays offer a conservative and durable solution. At Griffith Dental Associates, we provide custom inlays and onlays to restore teeth affected by moderate decay or fractures, preserving as much of your natural tooth structure as possible while reinforcing strength and function.
Located in Fondren Southwest, we serve patients from Sharpstown, Bellaire, Gulfton, and nearby Southwest Houston neighborhoods with personalized restorative care grounded in long-term oral health.
What Are Inlays and Onlays?
Inlays and onlays are types of dental restorations that repair damage to a tooth’s biting surface. They’re often referred to as “indirect fillings” because they are custom-made outside the mouth and bonded into place, rather than being shaped and cured directly in the tooth like a standard filling.
- Inlays fit within the grooves of the tooth (between the cusps) and are used when the damage is confined to the center of the tooth.
- Onlays extend over one or more of the cusps and are used when damage is more extensive but not severe enough to require a crown.
Both options are typically made from high-quality porcelain or composite materials that match your natural tooth color and provide long-lasting strength.
Learn how inlays and onlays fit into our broader approach to smile restoration on our Restorative Dentistry page.
When Are Inlays and Onlays Recommended?
We may recommend an inlay or onlay if:
- You have decay that’s too large for a standard filling
- Your tooth is fractured, but the structure is still mostly intact
- You want a more durable alternative to traditional fillings
- You’re replacing old metal restorations with tooth-colored materials
Because they’re precision-crafted and bonded into place, inlays and onlays offer excellent longevity and a more natural fit compared to larger fillings.
The Treatment Process
Your inlay or onlay treatment is typically completed over two visits:
Visit 1 – Preparation and Impressions
We remove the damaged or decayed portion of the tooth, clean the area thoroughly, and take digital or traditional impressions to send to our dental lab. A temporary restoration is placed to protect the tooth.
Visit 2 – Placement and Bonding
Once your inlay or onlay is ready, we check the fit, make any necessary adjustments, and bond it permanently to your tooth using strong dental cement. The result is smooth, functional, and virtually indistinguishable from your natural tooth.
If you’re comparing options like crowns and bridges or composite restorations, we’ll help you decide which solution best fits your tooth’s condition and your overall dental goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
We focus on prevention, whole-person wellness, and long-term relationships. Our care is designed to support not just oral health, but overall well-being.
Still have questions?
Are inlays and onlays better than fillings?
Inlays and onlays are stronger and longer-lasting than traditional fillings, especially for larger areas of damage. They also provide a more secure seal and better preserve the remaining healthy tooth structure.
How long do inlays and onlays last?
With proper care, they can last 10 to 20 years or more. Their durability makes them a great option for back teeth that endure heavy chewing forces.
Do inlays and onlays look natural?
Yes. We use tooth-colored porcelain or composite that is custom-matched to your enamel for a seamless, natural appearance.
Is the procedure painful?
The process is comfortable and typically performed under local anesthesia. Most patients experience little to no discomfort during or after treatment.
Will my dental insurance cover inlays or onlays?
Many PPO plans offer coverage for inlays and onlays when they are deemed medically necessary. We’ll help you verify your benefits and provide a transparent estimate before treatment begins.
Restore Strength with a Conservative Approach
If you have a tooth with moderate damage or an old filling that needs replacement, inlays and onlays may be the ideal solution. At Griffith Dental Associates, we combine clinical precision with compassionate care to help you make the best decision for your long-term oral health.
Call us at (713) 523-1666 or schedule your appointment online. We proudly serve patients in Fondren Southwest, Sharpstown, Bellaire, and throughout the Southwest Houston area.